The Louisiana House Education Committee convened on May 28, 2025, to discuss significant legislative changes aimed at enhancing protections for school employees. Central to the meeting was Senate Bill 178, introduced by Senator Jenkins, which seeks to establish a School Employee Bill of Rights. This bill aims to extend the protections currently afforded to teachers under the existing Teacher Bill of Rights to all school employees.

Senator Jenkins explained that while the bill does not grant additional disciplinary authority to school employees, it ensures they receive similar protections as teachers when exercising their existing authority to maintain order and discipline among students. The intent is to safeguard school employees from potential repercussions when they act within their legal rights to manage student behavior.

During the meeting, amendments to the bill were proposed to clarify the language regarding the scope of authority for school employees. These amendments aim to eliminate any ambiguity that could arise from the bill's wording, ensuring that the intended protections are clearly defined and understood.

Cynthia Posey from the Louisiana Federation of Teachers emphasized that the School Employee Bill of Rights encompasses more than just disciplinary measures. It aims to consolidate various rights and responsibilities of school employees into a single, accessible statute. This includes provisions for necessary training in medical procedures, ensuring that school employees are adequately prepared to handle specific health-related tasks.

The committee's discussions highlighted the importance of creating a clear framework that not only protects school employees but also enhances the overall safety and effectiveness of school environments. The proposed bill and its amendments are seen as steps toward better supporting those who work in educational settings, ultimately benefiting both staff and students.

As the committee moves forward, the focus will be on finalizing the amendments and advancing the bill for further consideration, marking a significant development in the ongoing efforts to improve conditions for school employees in Louisiana.